Women's football world cup 2019 final

Introduction to the historic final

The women's football world cup 2019 final was a landmark event in the history of sports, pitting two formidable teams, the United States Women's National Team (USWNT) and the Netherlands, against each other. Held on July 7, 2019, at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais in Décines-Charpieu, France, this match was more than just a championship game; it was a cultural phenomenon that broke viewership records and sparked vital conversations about gender equality in sports. The atmosphere was electric, with a sell-out crowd of 57,900 fans creating an unforgettable backdrop for what would become a pivotal moment for women's football globally. The anticipation had been building throughout the tournament, with both teams displaying exceptional skill and determination to reach this ultimate stage.

The significance of this particular final cannot be overstated. It followed a tournament that saw unprecedented media coverage, increased attendance, and a growing recognition of the talent and athleticism within the women's game. The final represented the culmination of years of advocacy and hard work by players, coaches, and administrators to elevate women's football to its rightful place alongside its male counterpart. This match was a testament to the growth of the sport, showcasing its appeal to a diverse global audience and solidifying its place in the mainstream sporting consciousness.

The road to the championship: usa vs. netherlands

The united states women's national team's dominance

The USWNT entered the women's football world cup 2019 final as the defending champions and arguably the most dominant force in international women's football. Their journey to the final was marked by a series of impressive victories, starting with a record-breaking 13-0 win over Thailand in their opening group stage match. They navigated challenging knockout rounds, including a thrilling 2-1 victory over hosts France in the quarter-finals and another 2-1 win against England in a highly anticipated semi-final clash. Key players like Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, and Rose Lavelle consistently delivered crucial performances, demonstrating their tactical prowess, physical conditioning, and mental fortitude. The team's depth, with impactful contributions from players like Carli Lloyd off the bench, was a significant factor in their success, allowing coach Jill Ellis to maintain high intensity throughout every match.

The netherlands' ascendant journey

The Netherlands, represented a rising power in women's football. Having won the UEFA Women's Euro in 2017, they arrived in France with significant momentum and a point to prove. Their path to the women's football world cup 2019 final was characterized by a resilient team spirit and clinical finishing. They topped their group with three wins, then overcame Japan in a tight round of 16 encounter, defeated Italy in the quarter-finals, and secured their spot in the final with a semi-final victory over Sweden. Led by star players like Vivianne Miedema, Lieke Martens, and Sari van Veenendaal in goal, the Dutch team, affectionately known as the "Oranjeleeuwinnen" (Orange Lionesses), captivated fans with their dynamic play and fierce determination. Their presence in the final underscored the increasing competitiveness and global spread of talent within women's football.

Key moments and game play analysis

The women's football world cup 2019 final itself was a tense and tactical affair, particularly in the first half. The Netherlands, known for their strong defensive organization and quick counter-attacks, successfully stifled the formidable US attack for the initial 45 minutes. Goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal was a standout performer, making several crucial saves to keep the score level, including denying Julie Ertz from close range and parrying an ambitious effort from Tobin Heath. The US, despite their relentless pressure, struggled to break down the Dutch defense, with the score remaining 0-0 at halftime.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 61st minute, following a pivotal moment that involved VAR (Video Assistant Referee). US captain Megan Rapinoe was brought down in the box by Stefanie van der Gragt. After a review, a penalty was awarded. Rapinoe, known for her composure and precision, stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick, placing the ball past Van Veenendaal to give the USA a crucial 1-0 lead. This goal not only opened the scoring but also made Rapinoe the oldest player to score in a Women's World Cup final at 34 years and 5 days. Just eight minutes later, the US extended their lead. Rose Lavelle, who had been a creative force throughout the tournament, embarked on a sensational solo run, dribbling past two defenders before unleashing a powerful left-footed shot from just outside the box that found the back of the net. This stunning goal, a moment of individual brilliance, sealed the 2-0 victory for the United States, securing their fourth Women's World Cup title.

Impact and legacy of the 2019 final

The women's football world cup 2019 final left an indelible mark on the sporting world. The tournament as a whole shattered viewership records, with the final alone drawing a global audience of over 1.12 billion viewers across all platforms, according to FIFA. In the United States, the match was the most-watched soccer game on English-language television since 2015, surpassing viewership for many men's sporting events. This immense reach highlighted the growing commercial viability and broad appeal of women's football. Beyond the numbers, the final catalyzed a broader conversation about gender equality, equal pay, and investment in women's sports.

Megan Rapinoe, in particular, became a prominent voice for social justice and equality, using her platform to advocate for fair pay for female athletes. Her "pose" celebration and candid remarks during and after the tournament resonated globally, pushing discussions on equitable treatment for women's sports to the forefront. The success of the tournament and the USWNT's triumph inspired countless young girls and boys worldwide, demonstrating that female athletes are powerful role models capable of achieving greatness. The final solidified the USWNT's status as sporting icons and underscored the global appetite for high-quality women's football, setting new benchmarks for future tournaments and encouraging greater investment in the sport at all levels.

the 2019 final demonstrated the massive potential for growth in women's sports, prompting leagues and federations around the world to re-evaluate their strategies for promoting and funding women's football. It served as a powerful testament to the talent, dedication, and entertainment value that women's football offers, paving the way for increased visibility and respect in the years to come.

Tactical masterclass and coaching battle

The women's football world cup 2019 final was also a fascinating tactical battle between two highly respected coaches: Jill Ellis for the United States and Sarina Wiegman for the Netherlands. Ellis, leading the USWNT to their second consecutive World Cup title, employed a flexible 4-3-3 formation that prioritized aggressive attacking play and relentless pressing. Her team's ability to maintain high intensity for the full 90 minutes, coupled with their exceptional depth, allowed them to overwhelm opponents. The tactical adjustments, such as bringing on fresh legs like Christen Press or Carli Lloyd, proved crucial in late-game scenarios throughout the tournament.

Wiegman's Netherlands, conversely, adopted a more pragmatic approach, often setting up in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 that emphasized defensive solidity and quick transitions. In the final, their strategy was clearly aimed at containing the potent US attack and exploiting opportunities on the counter. Their disciplined backline and the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal were key to frustrating the US for long periods. However, the sheer offensive power and individual brilliance of the US ultimately proved too much to handle. The crucial penalty decision and Rose Lavelle's solo effort highlighted moments where individual quality broke through even the most organized defenses, demonstrating how fine the margins are at the elite level of international football. The coaching duel exemplified the diverse strategies employed at the pinnacle of women's football, showcasing how different philosophies can lead teams to a World Cup final.